I always said that if I did a longer race (ie. half or
longer) for the first time, I would want it to be a smaller, local race. I can
get carried away with the crowds and overwhelmed by small details, like shuttle
busses. My run-buddy Kim ran the race last year and loved it so much (even
though it was a real tough one for her) she wanted to do it again. In 2011 it
was the race’s inaugural year and they have received high praise for their
organization. The best part is that you can park right by the start line! For
those of you who race, you know how exciting this is.

The second best part? A
bottle of wine in the swag bag. The third best part: Katherine Switzer, woman
running pioneer, will be part of the whole event. The fourth best part…really I
could go on. Basically, this race has it all.

The Plan: 15 weeks, custom made

I created a plan for myself based on several resources. A
torn out page from an old copy of Runner’s World magazine, it was only 10 weeks
and all in miles so I had to convert it all. The Another Mother Runner’s
“Finish It” Half Marathon plan. It was 16 weeks and included some optional
workouts (less guilt is always good). I also had to adapt these schedules to my
actual life. The nitty-gritty of when I would do the plan workout. The process looked like this:

I'll post details of training as I go.

The Goals: Live to tell the tale

Being my first ever half-marathon there are some goals I
would like to achieve.

Complete the training as best to my ability without making my husband
resent me and my kids forgetting who I am.

Get to the starting line injury free

Enjoy the race! Take in the sights and sounds and people around me.

Set a realistic target time (and a secret target time) and work hard to
get there.